Improvements were noted in all categories over the course of summer, and instructors consequently suggested that children continue to make goals for themselves throughout the school year.

Garcia said it was also made clear to the summer camp students that it wasn’t a question of being the best or the fastest.

Already, incorporating the program into the after-school program is well into the planning stages.

“We’re just figuring the best way to execute between all the sites,” Garcia said.

Those sites are Marco, catering for students from Tommie Barfield Elementary; as well as Lely, Parkside and Manatee elementary schools -- along with the Marco Island Charter Middle School and Manatee Middle School. The off-island schools are embraced by the Y’s outreach program.

In a comprehensive report on all its summer camp components -- math, literacy, fitness and enrichment -- compiled by the various instructors and directors, gains in math and literacy were encouraging, as was enrichment.

“That was because of thinking-outside-the-box activities,” Garcia said. “For example, in one class the students created their own board games. It was fun and hands-on. It’s not just sitting down, staring at a computer.”

Fourth Grade student and summer camper as well as after school student Danielle Johnson, said she enjoyed the blend of fun activities and education.

“Every Friday we would have a big water balloon fight,” she said, “and we had interesting math and literacy classes.”

Johnson said the fitness part of the program was also a good idea.

The math and literacy gains, Garcia said, were largely due to the Y hiring teachers from Collier County for the summer sessions. This offsets the fact that students can sometimes lose up to two months of previous grade level knowledge during summer months.

Teachers, according to the report, also used reward systems that included small prizes, special privileges for a day, or verbal recognition for positive behavior.

The report also noted the success of a wide assortment of field trips and outreach programs.

Camp themes included Let’s Get Fit for Fun, A Day at the Ballpark, Let’s Build It, Water Splash Week, Master Chefs and Tribal Olympics.

Among contributory projects were making chew toys for Collier County Domestic Animal Services from donated towels and sheets; coloring books for the Shelter for Abused Women and Children; and learning how to support the Harry Chapin Food Bank as well as Rookery Bay Marine Estuary Reserve. One group produced cards and letters for soldiers via the organization A Million Thanks.

Marco summer camp director Miranda Warner said she found the educational component impressive.

“We had some amazing teachers,” she said. “They were really thorough. In math, some students actually did better than in their previous school grades.”

She added that in general, the campers and after-school students enjoy visits from the outside by teachers and speakers.

“That’s really cool for them,” Warner said.

For more info on the Y’s assorted programs and activities for youth and adults, visit greatermarcoy.org or call 394-3144.